Average Salary for Clinical Nurse Specialists
A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is a highly trained advanced practice nurse who has completed either a Master’s or Doctorate program and holds certification in their specialty. They possess comprehensive knowledge in areas such as assessment, pharmacology, and physiology. The CNS role extends beyond direct patient care to include diagnosing and treating conditions within their expertise. In the U.S., while registered nurses have an average annual income of $82,750, clinical nurse specialists are among the top earners in the nursing field, typically making over $100,000 per year on average. For instance, salaries for CNSs range from $106,407 to $113,724. These figures are averages and do not account for variations due to factors like job position, experience, and location. Find job matches in your area and get answers to your nursing career queries. Start by telling us your current role: Staff nurse, Manager, or Other.
Comparing salaries of clinical nurse specialists to other advanced practice nurses, CNSs earn $110,760 on average, compared to $82,750 for registered nurses, $51,850 for LPNs/LVNs, $118,040 for nurse practitioners, $114,210 for nurse midwives, and $205,770 for nurse anesthetists. The career outlook for CNSs is promising. The National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) estimates that 69,017 RNs have the necessary qualifications to become CNSs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 40% increase in APRN roles from 2021 to 2031, indicating strong growth potential. Frequently asked questions about nursing salaries include what influences a nurse’s earnings. Key factors are specialty, geographic location, experience, education, and employer. To boost their salary, nurses can gain expertise in high-demand specialties that require advanced education, such as becoming a CRNA, NP, or taking on administrative roles. Find job matches in your area and get answers to all your nursing career questions. Begin by indicating your current role: Staff nurse, Manager, or Other.
